Lifehouse

At the inaugural San Diego Half Marathon on Sunday, more than 6,000 runners will do “whatever it takes” to finish the 13.1-mile race. Perhaps they’ll be motivated, knowing that a Lifehouse concert awaits them.

Lifehouse, a Billboard Music Award-winning rock band with hits such as “Whatever It Takes” and “Hanging by a Moment,” will perform at Celebrate San Diego, an event that seeks to bring together family and friends of race participants. Celebrate San Diego will include a health expo and guest speakers.

“We wanted to make a statement this year: We’re more than just a race,” said Susan Briggs, executive director of the San Diego Half Marathon. Lifehouse is from Southern California, so what better way to celebrate San Diego?

“They appeal to everyone,” Briggs said of the Los Angles-based band, which has sold more than 5 million albums. “Runners need an upbeat tempo, and Lifehouse really fits the mold.”

Because of the anticipated large turnout (6,000 are registered for the race, and more than 12,000 are expected to attend Celebrate San Diego), Briggs has ambitious goals for the future: “We hope to do a big concert every year. … I absolutely can see it involving local talent … always a headliner, too.”